In 1983 the Board of Directors of the Michigan Women's Studies Association voted to establish a special award as part of the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame honors program.

This award is presented annually to: "A Michigan male citizen who, during the year preceding or in a career that has demonstrated unique understanding and support of women's issues and concerns, and who has contributed significantly to the advancement of women's rights and interests either in Michigan or on the national scene."

The Board also voted to name this special award after the late Senator Philip A. Hart, who in 1983 became, posthumously, its first recipient.

Unlike the Hall of Fame awards, the Philip A. Hart Award is to be conferred by a vote of the Board of Directors. The Board, however, is interested in soliciting nominations for this special award from the general public. For further information, please contact the Michigan Women's Studies Association at 517-484-1880 ext. 203 or info@michiganwomen.org.